What's happened
As the Vatican prepares for the papal conclave on May 7, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is seen as a leading candidate to succeed Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21. Known for his diplomatic skills and familiarity with the cardinals, Parolin's candidacy reflects a desire for stability after a tumultuous papacy.
What's behind the headline?
Overview
Cardinal Pietro Parolin's candidacy for the papacy is significant for several reasons:
- Familiarity with Electors: Parolin's extensive interactions with cardinals worldwide position him as a unifying figure in a conclave where many electors are unfamiliar with each other.
- Diplomatic Experience: His background in Vatican diplomacy suggests he could navigate complex global issues effectively, appealing to cardinals seeking stability.
- Controversial Past: While some view his role in the Vatican's agreement with China as a diplomatic success, critics argue it compromises the Church's integrity.
Implications
- Stability vs. Change: Parolin's election could signal a preference for continuity over the progressive changes initiated by Pope Francis.
- Global Challenges: His approach to issues like migration and relations with authoritarian regimes will be closely scrutinized, especially in light of rising global tensions.
- Future of the Church: The outcome of the conclave will shape the Church's direction in addressing contemporary moral and social issues, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ rights and international diplomacy.
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Cardinal Parolin is viewed as a steady administrator who could bring calm after the tumultuous papacy of Francis. Philip Pullella notes that Parolin's familiarity with the cardinals could be crucial in the conclave. Meanwhile, Jason Horowitz from the New York Times highlights Parolin's cautious nature and his ability to enact Francis' vision, despite lacking the late pope's charisma. The Scotsman emphasizes that Parolin is considered the most likely successor, reflecting a desire for stability among the electors. This contrast in perspectives illustrates the complexities surrounding Parolin's candidacy and the broader implications for the Church's future.
How we got here
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, prompting the upcoming conclave to elect his successor. Cardinal Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State, has been a prominent figure in the Church and is well-known among the cardinal electors.
Go deeper
- What are the main challenges facing the next pope?
- How does Parolin's background influence his candidacy?
- What are the key issues the conclave will address?
Common question
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Who is Cardinal Pietro Parolin and why is he a leading papal candidate?
As the Vatican gears up for the papal conclave on May 7, 2025, Cardinal Pietro Parolin has emerged as a prominent candidate to succeed Pope Francis. With his diplomatic background and familiarity with the cardinals, many are curious about what his candidacy means for the future of the Catholic Church. Below, we explore key questions surrounding this pivotal moment in Vatican history.
More on these topics
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Pietro Parolin is an Italian prelate of the Catholic Church. A cardinal since February 2014, he has served as the Secretary of State since October 2013 and a member of the Council of Cardinal Advisers since July 2014.
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Pope Francis is the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State. Francis is the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first pope from outside Europe since the Syrian Gregory
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Vatican City, officially the Vatican City State, is the Holy See's independent city-state enclaved within Rome, Italy. Vatican City became independent from Italy with the Lateran Treaty, and it is a distinct territory under "full ownership, exclusive domi